There’s something magical about buttery, golden biscuits—especially when they’re swimming in rich, melted butter and filled with ooey-gooey cheese and savory ham. These Ham and Cheese Butter Swim Biscuits are everything you love about classic Southern comfort food, with a cheesy, meaty twist that takes them to a whole new level. Whether you’re serving them for breakfast, brunch, or an easy dinner side, they’re guaranteed to be a hit at the table.
With crispy edges, a tender middle, and melty layers of cheese and ham tucked inside, it’s no wonder these biscuits are trending across food blogs and Pinterest boards. Plus, the no-fuss “swim-in-butter” baking method makes them almost foolproof!
Why You’ll Love This Ham and Cheese Butter Swim Biscuits Recipe
Here’s why these biscuits deserve a permanent spot in your baking routine:
- Super Easy to Make – No rolling or cutting dough. Just mix, pour, and bake.
- Minimal Ingredients – Pantry staples and a handful of fresh items are all you need.
- Comfort Food Classic – Cheesy, buttery, savory—the ultimate trifecta.
- Great for Any Meal – Serve them as a breakfast sandwich, brunch side, or dinner bread.
- Customizable – Swap ingredients to suit your diet or taste preferences.
Ingredients Needed for Perfect Ham and Cheese Butter Swim Biscuits
For the biscuits:
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour (use gluten-free blend if needed)
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- 1 tbsp granulated sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 ¾ cups buttermilk (or milk + 1 tbsp vinegar)
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
For the filling:
- 1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (or use mozzarella or pepper jack for a twist)
- 1 cup diced cooked ham (turkey ham or plant-based ham works too)
Topping (optional):
- Freshly ground black pepper or chopped parsley for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Ham and Cheese Butter Swim Biscuits
1. Preheat and prep the pan.
Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Pour melted butter into a 9×9-inch baking dish.
2. Mix dry ingredients.
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt.
3. Add wet ingredients.
Pour in the buttermilk and stir just until combined—don’t overmix.
4. Fold in the ham and cheese.
Gently fold in the diced ham and shredded cheese until evenly distributed.
5. Transfer to the pan.
Spoon the biscuit dough directly into the buttery pan. Use a spatula to spread it evenly.
6. Score the dough.
Lightly score the dough into 9 squares with a knife. This helps them bake up evenly.
7. Bake to golden perfection.
Bake for 25–28 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and the edges are crisp.
8. Cool and serve.
Let cool for 5 minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy warm!
Recipe Tips & Variations
- Add a Kick: Mix in chopped jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy version.
- Make it Sweeter: Swap ham for crumbled bacon and add a drizzle of honey.
- Dairy-Free Option: Use plant-based butter and non-dairy milk with lemon juice.
- Extra Flaky: Chill your buttermilk before mixing—it keeps the biscuits fluffy inside.
How to Store & Reheat
Storing:
Keep leftover biscuits in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Reheating:
Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 8–10 minutes or microwave for 30 seconds until warm. To keep the edges crispy, avoid microwaving for too long.
Similar Recipes You’ll Love
If you enjoyed these Ham and Cheese Butter Swim Biscuits, don’t miss out on these other delicious, cheesy, and comforting creations from the blog:
- Cottage Cheese Brownies – A Deliciously Unexpected Twist
- Cottage Cheese Egg Bake – A protein-packed breakfast option you can prep ahead.
- Garlic Cheese Fingers – Quick & Easy Cheesy Snack Recipe – Perfect for dipping and sharing!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I freeze Ham and Cheese Butter Swim Biscuits?
Yes! Wrap cooled biscuits tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat in the oven.
What kind of ham works best?
Cooked deli ham, leftover holiday ham, or diced ham steak all work great.
Can I use a different cheese?
Absolutely! Try Swiss, pepper jack, gouda, or a cheddar blend for different flavors.
Do I have to use buttermilk?
No, you can make your own by adding 1 tbsp vinegar or lemon juice to 1¾ cups milk.
These Ham and Cheese Butter Swim Biscuits are warm, flaky, cheesy perfection—and they couldn’t be easier to make. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or treating yourself, this recipe delivers comfort in every bite. Try them once, and you’ll be making them on repeat!
Ham and Cheese Butter Swim Biscuits
Ingredients
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- 1 tbsp granulated sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 ¾ cups buttermilk or 1 ¾ cups milk + 1 tbsp vinegar
- ½ cup unsalted butter melted
- 1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup diced cooked ham
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 450°F (230°C).
- Pour melted butter into a 9×9-inch baking dish and tilt to coat the bottom.
- In a bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt.
- Add buttermilk and stir until just combined.
- Fold in cheese and ham.
- Spoon dough into the buttered pan and spread evenly.
- Score dough into 9 squares using a knife.
- Bake for 25–28 minutes until golden brown.
- Let cool for 5 minutes before slicing. Serve warm!